Caledon Meals on Wheels has partnered with Tim Hortons on this week’s Smile Cookie campaign.
The week-long event sees Tim Hortons guests and restaurant owners nationwide come together to support local charities.
“We are projecting to deliver around 30,000 meals this year,” explained Kim Rodrigues, executive director. “We serve seniors and those with developmental disabilities living in the Caledon region. We also serve the Orangeville area.”
Rodrigues added the service provided by the organization is much more than just delivering nutritious food to its clients.
“I know our seniors look forward to seeing their volunteers. We offer a wellness check-in every time we deliver a meal to make sure they are okay. When they’re not, we have our volunteer reach back out to us and we will work with them and their families. Sometimes we will reach out to the OPP to make sure they are okay.”
The campaign is the most important fundraiser of the year for Meals on Wheels in Caledon, and Rodrigues said it is crucial to the organization’s success.
“We do have some core funding we receive from Ontario Health as well as some municipal and other local money, but we need to fundraise $230,000 each year to keep our doors open. That keeps our meal costs low or free of charge for those needing the additional subsidy.”
The Scianitti family owns the Tim Hortons locations on Airport Road and Mayfield Road.
“The Smile Cookie campaign is one of our store’s favourite times of the year. It’s when our guests and team come together to make a real difference. Every cookie sold is a direct way to support incredible local organizations like Caledon Meals on Wheels, and it’s amazing to see our community’s generosity in action. Whether it’s your first Smile Cookie or your fiftieth, each one helps write a brighter story for Caledon. Let’s make this year the sweetest yet,” they said in a news release.
100% of the proceeds from each Smile Cookie sold will be donated to Caledon Meals on Wheels.
To learn more about Caledon Meals on Wheels and its services, visit www.cmow.org.
